The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun has visited Kebbi State to reinforce economic partnerships and confront the impact of flooding on agriculture.
Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga said the
move reflected President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to enhancing local economic growth and addressing natural disasters.
He indicated thst edun was accompanied during the visit by Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu in the tour of the WACOT Rice Limited facility in Argungu, a cutting-edge rice processing plant with an impressive annual milling capacity of 120,000 metric tons.
The facility the statement indicatef plays a pivotal role in the region’s economy by supporting thousands of farmers through an extensive procurement network and an 8,000-strong out-grower farming program, significantly boosting local rice production.
Edun also visited a rice farm currently facing challenges due to ongoing flooding, which threatens agricultural productivity in the area the statement indicated further.
Addressing the issue, Edun reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to mitigating the effects of these floods.
He emphasized the proactive measures facilitated by the National Economic Council (NEC) and Governor Nasir Idris, which have allocated N3 billion to each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to combat, mitigate, and prepare for the effects of flooding during the 2024 rainy season.
The funds the minister said are specifically aimed at supporting local farmers and safeguarding the agricultural sector.
The Minister commended the resilience and determination of the Kebbi State community and reiterated President Tinubu’s dedication to enhancing security and increasing productive capacity across the region. He also called for continued private sector investment to further expand agricultural production and reinforce Nigeria’s standing as a leading agricultural producer on the global stage.
Edun’s visit to Kebbi State the statement explainef underscored the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting local farmers, addressing the challenges posed by natural disasters, and driving economic growth.
“The combination of proactive government measures and private sector investment is expected to enhance agricultural resilience, boost productivity, and solidify Nigeria’s position as a key player in global agriculture.
“As Nigeria moves forward, the collaborative efforts of government and stakeholders will be essential in overcoming challenges and achieving sustainable economic development.”